Hey everyone,
I understand that a varactor diode provides voltage-controlled capacitance in tuning circuits, whereas a tunnel diode exhibits negative resistance due to quantum tunneling.
However, I would like a more detailed comparison between them in terms of working principles, characteristics, and applications. Can anyone help me understand them better?
Varactor diodes and tunnel diodes serve different purposes in electronic circuits. The table below provides a clear comparison of their differences.
You should use a varactor diode in circuits that require electronic tuning through capacitance control, such as in voltage-controlled oscillators, frequency tuning stages, or phase-locked loops.
On the other hand, a tunnel diode is best suited for applications that demand ultra-fast switching or oscillation at very high frequencies, making it useful in microwave circuits, high-speed switching devices, and specialized oscillators.